ECO - TASK FORCE

During 2000 - 2001, the government of Delhi sanctioned a project of rehabilitation of 2100 acres of degraded Bhati Sanctuary through the Eco-Task force of Territorial Army and Center for Environmental Management of Degraded Ecosystems of Delhi University. The objectives of the project are - reclaimation of degraded Bhati area through afforestation & grassland development, restoration of habitat for indigenous wildlife and other faunal species, improvement of ground water regime, improvement of soil quality and fertility in the area, addition to the recreation & bio-aesthetic value of the sanctuary and improvement in bio-diversity of Aravali ecosystem. This project will be completed in five years at the cost of Rs. 823 lakhs. This would improve the habitat of the Wildlife Sanctuary, increase forest cover of Delhi and also act as shelterbelt to check the advancing desert from the western part of Delhi. Till 2002 - 2003, 900 acres of Bhati Sanctuary was tackled under this project. Over 1,50,000 saplings have been planted and seeds of various indigenous tree species were sown at various locations. After the Territorial Army started its project the biotic interference in the area has come down to great extent.